Steven Beitashour called up to Iran national team ahead of 2014 FIFA World Cup

VANCOUVER - Vancouver Whitecaps FC confirmed today that defender Steven Beitashour has been called up by Iran for an upcoming training camp in Austria in preparation for this summer’s FIFA World Cup.

The camp will run from May 12 to May 31. Beitashour will join Iran in Austria following Saturday's MLS regular season match at Columbus Crew. Iran will play three friendlies during the camp, including matches against Belarus on May 18, Montenegro on May 26, and Angola on May 30. The California-born dual citizen will miss at least two matches while at the camp, including the May 14 second leg of the Amway Canadian Championship semifinal against Toronto FC at BC Place and the May 24 home game versus Seattle Sounders FC.

Since joining Iran's national team last fall, the 27-year old Beitashour has made four appearances. His debut came on October 15, 2013, in a 2-1 win over Thailand. Most recently, the 'Caps defender played 45 minutes for Iran in a friendly against Guinea on March 5.

In MLS action, 5-foot-10 right back has started all nine matches for Whitecaps FC since joining the club prior to the start of the season, playing all but one minute while recording two assists.

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